MOVING ON – by Ciara Leeming

They used to be known as “river gypsies”, and crisscrossed the country’s waterways to transport goods.

Those days are long gone, but today more and more people are again choosing to live on canal boats – only this time often for financial or environmental reasons.

I’ve developed something of a fascination for the different ways in which people live, and have always been struck by the pretty little houseboats that line the canals in London, and the genteel towns and villages of the Peak District.

So joining Leah and Peter Findlay as the moved their Dutch barge from Hebden Bridge to Leeds – a journey that by road would take no more than 30 minutes, but will take them three long weeks – was a fascinating experience, and hopefully a way to get behind some of the cliches of canal boat living.

CIARA LEEMING

RESPONSE:

duckrabbit

Ciara was one of duckrabbit’s first trainees. This an incredible effort, made in just two days.

Just goes to show with a bit of training, some graft, talent and an ear for a story, really strong work can be produced. Can’t wait to see what Ciara produces next.

DANIEL:

“Royal emptier of the shitter…”, hah classic line.

Really good slide show Ciara, very impressive

Dave

Well done Ciara. Top stuff. After recently spending four days on a barge and meeting a selection of people who have chosen to live like these guys, I can really see the attraction. Some great pictures there. Well done again.